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IMO approval raises risk potential awareness

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) recently approved the use of Isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO) as a novel food ingredient.

04 Aug 2017

Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) recently approved the use of Isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO) as a novel food ingredient. IMO has a potential risk for people with congenital or acquired sucrose-isomaltase deficiency. IMO is typically used as an alternative sweetener and as a bulking agent and might be found in:

· Carbonated beverages;

· Sports and energy drinks;

· Milk based drinks, and soy- or nut- based milk alternatives;

· Meal replacement drinks and bars;

· Fruit juices;

· Fruit flavoured drinks;

· Breakfast bars; and

· Confectionery.

People with this digestive enzyme deficiency may experience a laxative effect after eating or drinking foods that contain IMO. Those who are concerned should check the list of ingredients on packaged foods. Further details can be found at: http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/publications/Pages/IMO.aspx